Riebeek Kasteel, in the Western Cape, is an area rich in fertile soil within which orchards of peaches and vineyards thrive. In spring the town erupts in blossoms from the fruit trees as they prepare for the coming Boland summer.

The town is, however, primarily known for its wine and olives. Each year the Riebeek Valley Olive Festival is celebrated in May after the olive harvest. Many local businesses are dedicated to olives and its various products, with shops such as The Olive Boutique doing brisk business with aficionados from around the world. Situated on the slopes of Kasteel Mountain, Riebeek Kasteel was named after Dutch Cape commander, Jan Van Riebeeck, who sent men north to explore.

Upon coming across a breathtaking valley, the men reported seeing – in addition to the magnificent view – “thirteen horses, five rhinoceros and thousands of hartebeest”. It is believed the “horses” were in fact quagga, a species that went extinct in 1883.

The men called the valley Riebeek Valley in honour of their commander. Unsurprisingly, some of South Africa’s most accomplished landscape painters call Riebeek Kasteel their home. A number of local galleries stock the artists’ work, most of which are inspired by the beautiful surrounds.